MEMPHIS, Tenn. — The Memphis Zoo announced Wednesday it has opened a new center in Sri Lanka as part of the zoo’s conservation efforts.
The Conservation, Awareness, Research, and Education (CARE) Center is a partnership between the Memphis Zoo and the Tropical Ecosystem Research Network (TERN). The zoo said the Base Camp section officially opened Nov. 10, 2024. It serves as the main hub for operations.
The CARE Center is part of the Memphis Zoo’s Conservation 6 (C6) initiative, which identifies specific areas to focus conservation efforts. The center uses environmentally friendly materials and is constructed from eco-friendly bricks. It will be managed by Sri Lankan locals.
The next phase will include the opening of a field center with research labs. The long-term goal is focused on protecting biodiversity and sharing scientific knowledge around the world.
“Our hope is to highlight Sri Lanka’s incredibly rich ecosystems and to establish a strong foundation for sharing expertise on biodiversity, conservation, and environmental protection,” said a news release from zoo officials.
